Patanjali's Yogasutra | Dr. Kausthub Desikachar | II.23 & II.24 | 07 July 2018

Patanjali's Yogasutra | Dr. Kausthub Desikachar | II.23 & II.24 | 07 July 2018

New Section

The section introduces various terms and concepts related to yoga philosophy.

Introduction to Yoga Philosophy

  • Guadalupe, imodium, Prabhavati, jacket, Anika, Toraja, prasena are mentioned.
  • Concepts like maha purusha, Sun catcher, Sahasra Shearson are introduced.
  • Discussion on SWA SWA Misha Yahoo and defining prakruti and purusa.
  • Explanation of prakruti existing in the senses and its purpose.

Understanding Some Yoga Relationship

Exploring the concept of "some yoga" as a deep and long-lasting relationship.

Concept of Some Yoga

  • Definition of some yoga as an intimate and long-term relationship between purusa and prakruti.
  • Comparison of some yoga with other relationships like parents or partners.

Discussing the importance of understanding one's true nature through the relationship between Purusha and Prakruti.

Understanding Swa Shakti Swaroopa

  • Explanation of Swami Shakti Swaroopa representing the capacity and nature of Purusha and Prakruti.

Fundamental Issues in Relationships

Exploring the dynamics of relationships and the importance of understanding each other's true nature.

Understanding Differences in Relationships

  • When partners have different patterns, it leads to self-discovery and a deeper understanding of oneself.
  • The relationship between Purusa and Prakriti involves two distinct entities with contrasting characteristics.
  • Analogizing the connection in relationships to an Indian arranged marriage where understanding evolves through constant togetherness.

Importance of Relationship Dynamics

Delving into the significance of relationships for self-realization and personal growth.

Embracing Relationship Challenges

  • Emphasizing the positive outlook towards challenges in relationships for gaining a deeper understanding of one's true nature.
  • Highlighting how consciousness enhances the potential of matter, leading to varied functionalities despite similar chemical compositions.

Significance of Destiny in Relationships

Discussing how destiny plays a role in establishing connections and fulfilling one's purpose.

Role of Destiny in Self-Discovery

  • The concept of 'Prarabdha Karma' shaping relationships based on past actions, emphasizing existence for a specific reason.

New Section

This section discusses the concept of avidya (ignorance) in the context of Sankhya yoga philosophy.

Understanding Avidya

  • Avidya is described as a lack of knowledge of oneself and one's potential. It involves not knowing what one should become or do, leading to a state of ignorance.
  • The consequences of avidya can be seen when individuals make life choices based on societal expectations rather than their true potential. This can result in inner conflict and dissatisfaction.
  • Society and parental influence can lead individuals to pursue paths that may not align with their true nature, causing them to exist in a state of confusion about their purpose and potential.
  • Lack of clarity about one's true potential can result in individuals being pushed into roles or careers that do not resonate with them, leading to a sense of unfulfillment and inner turmoil.

New Section

This section delves into the impact of avidya on decision-making and societal influences.

Influence of Avidya on Decision-Making

  • Avidya can cloud one's judgment, leading them to make decisions based on external pressures rather than personal aspirations. This can result in individuals pursuing paths that do not align with their true interests or talents.
  • The lack of self-awareness regarding one's true potential can cause individuals to conform to societal norms and expectations, even if it means sacrificing their own happiness and fulfillment.
  • Society plays a significant role in shaping individuals' perceptions of success and fulfillment, often influencing them to pursue paths that may not be suited to their inherent abilities or desires.

New Section

The discussion revolves around the concept of ego and identity, emphasizing the conflict between societal expectations and individual potential.

Understanding Ego and Identity

  • Ego arises from confusion between purusa and prakruti, leading to a struggle to fit into societal structures.
  • Various spiritual schools agree that ego is a major obstacle, causing individuals to conform to unfitting roles.
  • Society's pressure to conform leads to internal conflict as individuals try to meet external expectations rather than align with their true nature.

Choosing What is Appropriate

The speaker discusses the importance of choosing activities that are within one's capacity and appropriate for them, rather than solely based on personal preferences.

Choosing Capacity-Appropriate Activities

  • It is essential to select activities that align with one's capabilities.
  • Choosing what is suitable in various dimensions is crucial for long-term success.
  • Emphasizes the significance of engaging in activities that are sustainable and not solely based on personal likes.

Discovering True Potential

The discussion revolves around recognizing the potential within oneself and how Purusha and Prakruti can work together to achieve their true potential.

Recognizing True Potential

  • Acknowledging the challenging relationship between Purusha and Prakruti but focusing on finding their true potential.
  • Illustration of two lost individuals coming together to find a common path, similar to Purusha and Prakruti discovering their true nature.

Purposeful Coexistence

Explores the idea of Purusha and Prakruti working together to uncover their genuine essence and destiny through collaboration.

Collaborative Discovery

  • Analogizes individuals seeking guidance like lost travelers who unite forces to find direction, mirroring Purusha and Prakruti's journey towards self-discovery.
Video description

This lecture is part of a series of Free Public Lectures on the Yogasutra of Patanjali, conducted by Dr. Kausthub Desikachar at the Krishnamacharya Healing & Yoga Foundation (www.khyf.net). The KHYF is the official umbrella organization that represents the classical and authentic Viniyoga® tradition of Acarya T Krishnamacharya and TKV Desikachar. In this session, Dr. Kausthub Desikachar speaks on the Sutras II.23 and II.24 which explore the purpose of the relationship between Purusa and Prakrti, and why there is this relationship in the first place. All are welcome to attend this lecture either at our center directly or through this webcast.